GetUp this morning welcomed calls for a Senate Inquiry into marriage equality, as a positive next step for members of the Australian public to make the case for amendment of the Marriage Act.
“A Senate Inquiry into marriage equality gives members of our community the space to convince their MPs of the need for reform, and we welcome the creation of that space,” GetUp National Director Simon Sheikh said. “This is a great opportunity for the public to have their voice heard in Parliament and continue to build momentum for change to this discriminatory federal law.”
“We will be actively encouraging our members to make submissions to the Inquiry when it is announced, sharing their stories of love and desire for equality under the law.”
“Last year when we launched a petition for marriage equality, a huge 145,480 Australians signed their name demanding change, and we expect many of those will take the opportunity to reach out to the Inquiry and make the case for equality once again.”
The grassroots community advocate said the Senate Inquiry would reveal widespread support for change.
“Politicians are elected to lead but on this issue they lag behind a community which has consistently shown overwhelming support for change. We look forward to members of the Labor Party and Coalition alike welcoming the Inquiry, seeking buy-in, and listening to the Australian public.” Mr Sheikh said.
“The Inquiry will hear over and again the positive affect marriage equality has on the mental health of a sector of our community with inexcusably higher rates of depression and suicide, it will hear about widespread community support for change and it will hear about the positive experience of nations like Spain, Norway and Argentina, who have full marriage equality.”
“We hope that this process alleviates the concerns of those MPs on the fence or in opposition to change, and that MPs in the Coalition are granted a conscience vote on the issue.”
For further information or comment contact Paul Mackay on 0415 182 402.